HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A landmark building in Luzerne County which served generations of families for the past century is getting a new lease on life.

The former St. Joseph’s Hospital has been vacant and falling apart for nearly 20 years.

28-22 News I-Team Reporter Andy Mehalshick takes us inside the building that still means so much to so many people.

The former St. Joseph’s Hospital has been empty since at least 2008.

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That will soon change and on Monday, 28/22 News got an exclusive look inside the building that has meant so much for so many people over the last century.

The former St. Joe’s Hospital can be seen for miles around the Hazleton Area.

It has changed ownership hands several times over the years with various projects falling to the wayside.

On Monday, 28/22 News got a look at several floors where demolition is now underway. We spoke with the developer about the project.

“We are offering commercial space on the ground floor with assisted living apartments above. You’ll find daycare, convenience store, beauty salon, maybe a bagel shop, gym, and professional offices,” said OB International Real Estate CEO and Founder Ofra Beigel.

She says a big part of the history of this building will be preserved.

“At the center of the hospital, there is a beautiful chapel, beautiful. So we’re going to preserve it. It will be like a cultural center, a community center. So we want to keep some of the history of this really beautiful building,” Beigel added.

She says this building is in pretty good shape.

“We did all the interior demolition and we were shocked absolutely to find how good the structure and foundation is,” Beigel continued.

Mayor Jeff Cusat says the building has been a black eye for the city for decades.

“It’s a good project five to six million right off the bat. Jobs in the city, working permits. Great to finally be able to see some positive at that building, some cash flow for the city too,” Mayor Cusat said.

Bob Yevak owns a business nearby.

“I’ll tell you what it means, in 1954 I was born on the third floor in there. So there’s lots of history with that building. It has to be revised to get it back in shape,” Yevak said.

Beigel tells 28/22 News the project costs are estimated to be around $30,000,000.

It should be completed in two years maybe sooner.

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